Title: Fun in NYC: Free Kayaking Adventure
Hey there! I usually share my New York City (NYC) ups and downs with you, and this is a brilliant up moment. Last week I discovered an amazing free activity for everyone living in or visiting NYC during summer — kayaking!
My friend Erin has a fantastic list of free summer activities in the city, but I’d always put off trying them out due to simply being too busy or feeling a bit daunted about figuring out the how-tos. Then, after a long 8-hour work shift, I decided it was time to break out of the routine and try something new. The most appealing thing on the list was, you guessed it, kayaking in the Hudson River.
A word of advice: Don’t go kayaking in your work clothes; I did, and ended up pretty soaked!
On foot, I crossed 56th Street and walked for 10 minutes to reach the docks. The sight of people enjoying themselves kayaking in the water was hard to miss. Upon arrival, a friendly woman welcomed me, offered a locker for my stuff, and even asked if I needed any sunscreen. The pier was busy but not overly crowded. I got a life vest and queued up with the other solo kayakers for about 5 minutes before I was able to take a free kayak out on the water.
Being out there on the water felt so freeing and relaxing, quite a rare sensation when living in the hustle and bustle of the city. After a few minutes of adjusting, I set off towards the designated area marked by a buoy. The staff kindly asked everyone to limit their time to around 20 minutes so that everyone gets a fair turn.
Another tip for you: It’s nice to make a small token donation for the service. When I finished my kayaking, I returned my gear, collected my things from the locker and noticed a donations box. Even though I only had a single dollar in my wallet at that spontaneous moment, I was glad to contribute, thinking the fun experience was very well worth it.
I have to say, it was a serious win actually accomplishing one of the free activities I’ve meant to try. The Downtown Boathouse, the group running the free kayaking service, is dedicated to offering public access to the water. I’m already looking forward to going kayaking again!
Want to give it a go? Here are some locations you can visit:
1. Pier 26 Boathouse – north of N Moore St. You can take the 1 to Franklin St or the A,C,E to Canal Street.
2. Pier 96 – 56th Street near the Intrepid. Accessible via the 1, A, B, C, D at 59th St – Columbus Circle or the A, C, E at 50th Street.
3. 72nd Street Dock – located in Riverside Park. Take the 72nd Street stairs down to the dock. Accessible via the 1, 2, 3 at 72nd Street.
Spread the word and share this with your friends!
Related posts:
1. Free Rollerskating in NYC (and More!)
2. Tips to Save on a Summer Staycation
3. The Adventures of NYC Parking
All posts under: Free Activities, NYC, Kayaking